Frozen dessert brand 16 Handles entered new markets in 2024 and reduced the cost of unit build out, the company said Wednesday.
The New York City-based company said key growth states included Arizona, South Carolina, Texas, Florida, and New York.
“We continue to improve our system and create a new level of demand that is positively impacting new and old stores alike,” Neil Hershman, 16 Handles CEO, said in a statement. “Our willingness to take risks – like recent viral flavor launches including French fry frozen yogurt and Squid Games-inspired Squid Ink Black Matcha or design a customer lounge-style seating area – have shown us a clear path forward.”
The brand also revamped its store design and decreased the cost of buildout by nearly $30,000.
“The updated store design now features in-house millwork production to have full control of the custom modular and jaw-dropping topping bar that makes 16 Handles the most unique and technical frozen yogurt concept,” the company said. “In addition, all key elements for the franchise are now manufactured in America, with the highest quality products less than half of what comparable brands are able to offer.”
“We have now created customized branded furniture that is easy to assemble for franchisees,” Hershman added. “For me, this is a big win that helps us to achieve our goal of reducing startup costs and making a better and more unique branded store for our customers.”
16 Handles’ menu features 16 different soft-serve flavors, more than 50 toppings and sauces, as well as a variety of frozen novelties such as cakes, cookie dough, and take-home pints.
The concept, founded in Manhattan’s East Village in 2008, has more than 35 locations.
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